RJ Mitte, best known for playing Walter “Flynn” White Jr. on Breaking Bad, has died at age 34, according to the report. The report says Mitte died by suicide. A county official reportedly said he died Monday in Texas, while an investigation into his death remains ongoing. His representative has asked the public to respect the privacy of his family and close friends.
For millions of television viewers, Mitte was remembered as Walter White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston’s character on AMC’s award-winning series. Mitte appeared in 56 episodes of Breaking Bad. The role was especially meaningful because Mitte had cerebral palsy in real life, just as the character did. He was diagnosed at age three and used his public platform to advocate for actors and other people with disabilities.
Reports about Mitte’s death were shared online, including a post from Dexerto citing TMZ.
Another post from Eric Daugherty also described the reported death and highlighted Mitte’s disability advocacy.
Page Six shared a statement from Mitte’s representative: “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte,” the statement reads. “RJ Mitte was best known for his role as Walter ‘Flynn’ White Jr. on AMC’s critically acclaimed, award-winning series Breaking Bad. Drawing from his own experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion,” the statement continues. “Beyond entertaining friends and family around the world, he served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s. He also served as president of The Mitte Foundation, supporting philanthropic efforts and community initiatives, while using his platform to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation for people with disabilities.” “At this time, we ask people to respect the privacy of RJ Mitte’s family and close ones,” the statement concludes.
Mitte was also a Screen Actors Guild spokesperson for actors with disabilities. In a 2015 interview with the Badger Herald, he explained how his own experiences shaped his outlook: “I think everyone that has a disability has the opportunity to make an impact with what they can do and who they are,” he told the publication. “I wouldn’t be able to do what I do today if it wasn’t for my disability and what it instilled in me.” He also said, “nothing worth anything comes easy.” “The trick is to never quit working and to always be pushing forward,” he added.
The report says Mitte had appeared on The Joe Vulpis Podcast on October 5, discussing how Breaking Bad changed his life and describing his close relationship with the cast years after the show ended. Earlier this month, he was also seen with Breaking Bad costar Luis Moncada in social media posts where they appeared to be in good spirits. The report further says Mitte was engaged to Kennedy Suarez after proposing last year, following years of dating.
Beyond Breaking Bad, Mitte was known for his work in The Oak Room, The Recall, and The Guardians of Justice (Will Save You!). A clip from his reported final podcast appearance is included below.
The entertainment industry can manufacture dramatic storylines by the dozen, but real life offers no rewrite button for a loss like this. Mitte was only 34, and his work as an actor, philanthropist, and disability rights advocate left a meaningful mark. His family’s request for privacy deserves respect as loved ones and fans mourn the reported tragedy.
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